Warren Shire Council has celebrated the people and groups who quietly - and sometimes not so quietly- make the community stronger, recognising their efforts at the 2026 Australia Day Awards.

The annual awards ceremony highlighted service, leadership and achievement across Warren Shire, with locals from all walks of life acknowledged for the time, care and commitment they give to

others.

The 2026 Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Junette “Nettie” Slade, recognised for her long-standing dedication to the Warren community and her tireless support of children and young people

through volunteering, education and cultural connection.

Mayor Greg Whiteley said the awards were an opportunity to publicly thank those who consistently step up for the community.

“Nettie Slade is always ready to help. She supports our kids, she gives her time rain, hail or shine, and she is deeply committed to community and culture,” Cr Whiteley said.

“Every winner and nominee this year represents something powerful about Warren Shire - that we look after each other, and we take pride in the people who make our community stronger.”

A respected local Elder and long-time volunteer, Ms Slade is a valued member of the Warren Lions Club and is well known for her fundraising efforts, including selling raffle tickets regardless of the

weather.

She also volunteers daily at Warraan Widji Arts, where she supports children and helps young Aboriginal people connect with culture through dance and music, passing on cultural knowledge that builds

confidence, pride and belonging.

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Charlie Gale, recognised for his leadership, humility and commitment to young people throughout 2025.

Mr Gale has played a key role both on stage and behind the scenes with Warraan Widji Arts and was selected for the Moorambilla Voices dance tutor team due to his ability to connect with children of

all ages.

His work has included major performances at Grow Festival and the Sydney Youth Orchestra's Big Sky concert, with further cultural projects planned for 2026.

Community Event of the Year was awarded to the St Mary’s Parish School Open Garden Day Weekend 2025, held on 17 and 18 October.

Junette "Nettie" Slade, a respected local Elder and long-time volunteer, was named as Warren Shire's Citizen of the Year.

The event attracted hundreds of visitors to Warren Shire, with seven families opening their gardens to the public.

Funds raised are being directed towards school playground renovations, with the event driven by months of planning and strong community support from volunteers, businesses, school staff and

students.

Young Achiever of the Year Hayley Hall was recognised for outstanding achievement in dance, representing her community internationally after travelling to the United States in April 2025 to perform at

Disneyland and Universal Studios and participate in workshops with leading dance studios in Los Angeles.

Sporting achievements were also acknowledged, with Matt Murphy named Sportsperson or Sporting Organisation of the Year for his long-standing involvement with the Warren Squash Club.

Mr Murphy has served as president for much of his 15-year involvement, working to grow participation, support young players and oversee facility upgrades through successful grant applications.

Young Sportsperson or Sporting Organisation of the Year was jointly awarded to Drew Barnett and Emily Wise.

Fifteen-year-old Mr Barnett broke four national powerlifting records at the Capital Strength Clash in October 2025, while 15-year-old Ms Wise achieved national and international success in rowing,

including competing at the Henley Royal Regatta in the United Kingdom and securing a silver medal at the Australian Rowing Championships.

Business House of the Year went to Western Mowers and Pumps, recognised for its important role servicing the community and expanding its offerings to include household gardening supplies, while

the Warren Hospital Auxiliary received the Community Service award for its ongoing support of local health services and the broader community.

Warren Shire Council congratulated all award recipients and nominees, thanking residents for taking the time to acknowledge the people and groups who help make Warren Shire a connected and

caring place to live.

“Thank you to the community for recognising those who strengthen Warren Shire through their service and generosity,” Cr Whiteley said.